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Idrissa Gueye was given a round of applause from his Everton teammates after delivering an explanation for his extraordinary red card during Monday's victory at Manchester United.

Unprecedented Situation in English Football

Gueye earned the distinction of being the initial Premier League player to be dismissed for striking a teammate in nearly two decades when he struck his defensive colleague during the fixture. Everton's display was heroic as they played with a man down for the majority of the game, including stoppage time, to secure David Moyes' first win at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in multiple tries.

'My first apology goes to Michael Keane,' Gueye stated on social media. 'I take full responsibility for my reaction.'

Team Response

The Senegalese international was unable to secure an opportunity to speak with Moyes or his teammates at half-time. Following the match, with the visitors' locker room celebrating after the 1-0 win, the veteran asked to speak to the entire group and the defender specifically.

• He expressed regret to Keane for striking him across the face
• The intense early altercation occurred after a poor distribution in his own penalty area
• He also apologized to the squad for leaving them with a difficult challenge
• Gueye's words were warmly received by the squad

Possible Ramifications

The 36-year-old may yet be punished by the club despite the manager's statement that he appreciates his team members competing with each other. Moyes has a regular disciplinary procedure for red and yellow cards, including financial penalties, which is likely to be implemented in Gueye's case.

Suspension and International Commitments

Everton could be without their key player until the January. Gueye will complete a three-game ban against Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Forest but could be selected for Africa Cup of Nations duty by Senegal before he becomes eligible to play against the Blues on 13 December.

'Emotions can run high,' Gueye continued. 'However, there's no excuse for such conduct.'

Opposition Perspective

At the same time, Mathijs de Ligt claimed United of lacking immediacy in the recent defeat, which halted their unbeaten run at multiple matches.

• 'English football doesn't tolerate weakness,' stated the Netherlands international
• 'We were missing the necessary intensity to find the net'
• 'Against a team like Everton,' that defend deep it becomes challenging

United travel to Crystal Palace for Sunday's noon kickoff. 'Our upcoming match is absolutely crucial,' said the defender. 'We have to bounce back from this performance.'